The hormone that primarily contributes to wider hips in females is estrogen. Estrogen is a female sex hormone that plays a crucial role in the development of female secondary sexual characteristics, including a wider pelvis.
During puberty, estrogen stimulates the growth and widening of the pelvis, making it suitable for childbirth. It also influences the distribution of fat, leading to the characteristic "hourglass" figure with wider hips and a smaller waist in women.
While estrogen is the primary hormone responsible for wider hips, other factors like genetics, age, and weight can also influence hip width.
Here's a breakdown of how estrogen affects hip width:
- Pelvic Bone Growth: Estrogen promotes the growth and widening of the pelvic bones, particularly during puberty.
- Fat Redistribution: Estrogen encourages fat storage in the hips, buttocks, and thighs, contributing to the feminine shape.
- Hormonal Changes: Fluctuations in estrogen levels throughout a woman's life, such as during pregnancy, can affect hip width.
It's important to remember that hip width is influenced by various factors, and while estrogen plays a significant role in shaping a woman's hips, it's not the only determinant.